Meralco Power Academy, MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology partner to enhance education in energy and innovation

As part of its commitment to equip and empower the country’s future power industry experts, Meralco Power Academy (MPA) has partnered with Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) to promote energy education and innovation.

Key officials from both parties signed a memorandum of understanding at the power utility’s headquarters in Pasig City to formalize the partnership that aims to enhance capability building through the conduct of specialized learning events and training programs. These are envisioned to allow students to gain valuable industry experience through immersion and internship opportunities.
“In the past, higher education institutions and industry are moving towards different directions. The solution towards that is strengthening the collaboration of industry and academia—not only in the development of talent and workforce but even in the field of research and development,” MSU-IIT Chancellor Alizedney M. Ditucalan said.

The collaboration covers a range of initiatives designed to foster innovation and research in the energy sector, including joint efforts in organizing events including the Mindanao leg of the Young Engineers and Scientists Summit, as well as co-development of a curricula for advanced degree programs in renewable energy and nuclear science.

It will also cover professional lectures, research conferences, and laboratory collaborations that will contribute to the country’s growing pool of energy professionals.

For Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and MPA President Ronnie L. Aperocho, an outstanding MSU alumnus himself, forging these partnerships is part of MPA’s broader mission to support the country’s energy transition.

“This collaboration is more than just an agreement—it reflects a shared vision of building a future-ready energy workforce. Together with MSU-IIT, we strive to equip aspiring engineers and scientists with the skills and knowledge to drive the Philippines toward a more sustainable energy landscape,” Aperocho concluded.